German Mayor Critically Injured in Stabbing Attack, Authorities Report
A recently appointed mayor in western Germany has been stabbed and left critically injured near her home, police say.
The official, 57, is a affiliate of the SPD political group and assumed the mayoral role of the municipality in the regional state in September.
Area law enforcement say a major operation is in progress in the small town. Investigators indicate all avenues are being explored, but they are not ruling out a domestic link.
The Chancellor censured what he called "a heinous act", adding: "We are concerned about the survival of the newly elected mayor, the victim, and hope for a full recovery."
The SPD said its party members were profoundly stunned by the incident.
Authorities confirm her two children - a daughter, 17, and a teenage boy - made an emergency call to authorities at midday local time (11:00 British time).
The children were later taken away for questioning and forensic investigation. A journalist present observed a teenager getting into a law enforcement vehicle.
This summer, there was an family conflict episode in the household, which was recorded by the police, insiders said.
- Public official stabbed near home
- Severe injuries reported
- Police investigation focuses on family links
- Children made emergency call
